Chess is an Official Sport

In addition to being an enjoyable game, a great entertainment, a form of art, and an ancient war model, chess is also a sport recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The World Chess Federation (known by its French acronym FIDE) fulfills all the criteria of being an IOC member.

FIDE:

is a non-governmental governing body for a given sport,

administers its sport at a world level with international rules,

promotes the sport to prospective spectators and fans,

develops prospective players,

organizes and runs continental and world championships tournaments and matches,

has the right to name the undisputed World Champion.

Since 1999 chess has been legally recognized and officially listed by the Association of the IOC Recognized International Sports Federations (ARISF) and the official website of the Olympics.

"I think the world title in chess is the most valuable title in all sports." - Vladimir Kramnik at FIDE KO WorldCup 2015